A place to find "do-it-yourself" ideas, home electrical safety information, and other great tools and goodies.

05/13/2010

Stay and Play: Save money by using your vacation to explore your hometown.

With spring comes vacation season for many families and over the last few years a new vacation phenomenon has come on the scene: The staycation. Largely motivated by the sluggish economy of recent years, the staycation cuts down on travel costs by spending vacation time at or near home. This may sound like a scary concept: There’s no chance the kids will go for it, or you’re sure to get bored sitting around the house. On the other hand, consider yourself lucky you don’t have to go miles and miles to enjoy everything our area and your very own home has to offer. Here are just a few activities you can plan to make your staycation a memorable one.

1. Camp in your backyard.You’ll be surprised by the sense of escape you get just from spending a night in your backyard. I mean how many times have you slept in youryard? Not many probably, it’s pretty different. There are tons of things you can do that you can’t in your house like having a bonfire, stargazing,and, quite simply, unplugging from the world. Not to mention, you’ll be amazed what you can cook on a stick or in a can.

2. Host a party.When else will you have the time to plan and prepare for a bash that does yourself and your home justice? Take the time you have off to get all the bells, whistles, and ingredients for delicious food and drinks.

3. Take a day trip.Visit that park, historical site, or downtown area that just can’t be squeezed in to a weekend. A lot of fun and relaxation can be achieved in a day. This is your chance to get out of your workand-errand bubble and see just what’s out there.

4. Enrich your whole year.If you’ve saved up vacation money and then decided to stay home, you are sitting on a goldmine waiting to be spent on items that will better your life. You could buy a cappuccino machine, a foot massager, a monthly maid service, a gym membership, patio furniture, an outdoor grill, a mountain bike or a whirlpool tub. This way, instead of one week of relaxation and better living, you can make it last all year.

5. House swap.Ask around and see if any of your friends would be willing to do a house-swap with you for aweek or two. You might be surprised at the new restaurants and activities you will discover with a little change ofscenery.

6. Give your home a checkup.Typically you are rushed when deciding to make an improvement to yourhome. During a staycation you’ll have the time to adequately understand your options, decide what’s right for you and enjoy the upgrade. Amps & Volts Electric wants to help you make the most of your staycation. This spring, we are offering you a FREE inspection of your electrical system. Most people don’t think much if a breaker trips or lights dim. But that could be the sign of a bigger problem. It’s recommended to have your entire system evaluated every year to reduce the chances of fire. Give us a call at 877-700-3873 and mention this newsletter. Staycation or not, we’ll come out and inspect your home for free (within our standard Northwest Indiana service area)!